Celtic star Gary Mackay-Steven has hailed Scott Brown as the Glasgow giants' Steven Gerrard after having a close-up view of what both men mean to their clubs.

The Hoops star spent two years at Liverpool's youth set-up and still rates Gerrard the greatest player he has ever seen.

But as Stevie G said an emotional farewell to Anfield last weekend after a glorious 17-year career at the club, Mackay-Steven paid tribute to another midfield superpower he believes is just as precious to Celtic as Gerrard was on Merseyside.

Mackay-Steven said: “Gerrard is the best player I’ve ever seen up close or trained with. He’s an example, much like Scott is here.

“They are both great captains who look after young players, help them settle into the team and set an example on and off the park.

“Gerrard was great with me the few times I trained with the first-team squad there. His technical skill and what he’s done in his career show he’s one of the best.

Steven Gerrard applauds the Kop after playing his last home match for Liverpool after 17 years with the club (Image: Getty Images)

“The biggest message he gave to me was just work hard and realise how lucky you are to be in a position to represent such a big club. He made it clear you need to grab every chance and give everything you have every day because it’s a great privilege to play there.

“On the training ground he was head and shoulders above everyone else and the one driving the rest of the team on, just like Scott.